Lord Howe Island

Bordered by the world's most Southerly coral reef, with clear waters abundant in more than 500 species of fish, some of the world's rarest birds and the country's cleanest, uncrowded beaches, Lord Howe Island can only be described as an island of superlatives. This open air aquarium which once was an important port for the whaling industry is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for both beauty and heritage, representing the closest tropical getaway from Aussie capital, Sydney.

Ex Whaling Industry on the tiny volcanic Crescent

Part of the 28 islands named after the British Earl Richard Howe, Lord of Admirality, the crescent-shaped land mass lies in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand. The unspoiled grounds only about 11 kilometers long and up to 2,8 kilometers wide have been discovered in 1788 and are volcanic in origin. Part of New South Wales, the former whaling industry highlight is situated in the North East of Sydney and the South East of Brisbane.

Repose for the Most Picky

With permanent beauty which does not fade away with the season, Lord Howe Island fits almost every vacation dream. Traveling here, you will have 11 beaches to choose from, including Neds Beach which was declared Australia's Cleanest Beach in 2004. Not only that the sands are soft and the waters are shallow but the uncrowded attribute may be a deciding aspect for the ones who want to spend some time alone or for the families who see it as a safer option.

Submarine and Land Fascination

Compared to the artificial waters of an aquarium, the visibility entering these crystal clear seashores can even reach thirty meters. Water sports enthusiasts will definitely have a blast as this deep blue can fit almost every kind of activity. The submarine world is very developed in this part of the sea. The most Southerly coral reef is home to more than 90 species of colorful delicate creatures and more than 500 types of tropical fish are to be admired here. With over 50 diving sites and the world's tallest sea stack at Balls Pyramid close by (26 kilometers South), Lord Howe is the absolute underwater bliss.

If you want to keep it dry, Lord Howe Island will not seem less entertaining. Hiking to Mt. Gower has been described as ''one of the world's best day walks'', birdwatching can amaze through the rare seabirds found here and the Lord Howe Island Museum will give you a detailed view on the beloved island destination.

Appreciate what most have designated the most beautiful island in the Pacific. Australia's Lord Howe Island is one worth using superlatives in its description.